Stagecoach cuts bus services in Scotland amid 'falling passenger numbers and rising costs'

Stagecoach is set to cut a number of services across the north of Scotland amid a review of its operations in the region.

The transport firm said it has been unable to cover the price of running its local network due to “a combination of tender losses, reduced passenger demand and higher costs”.

As a result, it said some of its current services are “no longer sustainable”.

From August, several bus routes across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire will end.

Meanwhile, changes will be made to a host of other services across the north.

Stagecoach said that services within the Highland Council area will not be changing except for some Bluebird Services on the A96.

A number of services are set to be axed this summer. STV News

The company is also considering closing its Stonehaven and Insch depots.

It said discussions will take place with staff, trade unions and local authorities in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray.

David Beaton, managing director for Stagecoach North Scotland, said: “We are a significant local employer and we understand the importance of bus services for the local community.

“We also know that any change can be unsettling for our people.

“That’s why we are working closely with both the trade union to protect as many jobs and as much of the local bus services as possible.

“We’re carrying out a consultation and will be working closely with staff during this process, however the reality is that we simply cannot sustain the current operation.”

Which Stagecoach bus services are being scrapped?

From August 19, the following bus services will no longer be operated by Stagecoach North Scotland:

Services 21A, 22A, 22B
Service 4
Service 8A, 8C
Service 41
Service 421
Service 221

From August 19, the following bus services will be withdrawn but Stagecoach said customers will be able to use alternative services:

Service 37 will be replaced by Service 9
Service 32 will remain between Elgin and Burghead
Service 203 will be replaced by Service 201/202 extensions
Service 74 will be covered by Service 69 extension
Service 78 A/C will be covered by Service 76/77
X65 will be covered by Service X62.
Service M98 will be withdrawn between Keith and Buckie.

Stagecoach said more than a dozen other services will see timetable changes with customers being urged to check their local route on the company’s website.